What is the term for a solution that contains more solute than the maximum amount possible under normal conditions?

What is the term for a solution that contains more solute than the maximum amount possible under normal conditions?

• A. saturated
• B. supersaturated
• C. insoluble
• D. unsaturated

Answer: (B)

A solution that contains more solute than the maximum amount that can be dissolved at a given temperature and pressure is referred to as supersaturated. In this state, the solution has exceeded its solubility limit, often achieved through processes such as heating the solution to dissolve more solute and then allowing it to cool slowly. As a result, the system becomes unstable; any disturbance can cause the excess solute to precipitate out rapidly. In contrast, a saturated solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve under equilibrium conditions, while an unsaturated solution has the capacity to dissolve more solute. An insoluble substance refers to a solute that cannot dissolve in the solvent at all, regardless of how much is added. Thus, the term supersaturated distinctly describes an interesting and specific condition of a solution where the solute exceeds the expected solubility limits.

A solution that contains more solute than the maximum amount that can be dissolved at a given temperature and pressure is referred to as supersaturated. In this state, the solution has exceeded its solubility limit, often achieved through processes such as heating the solution to dissolve more solute and then allowing it to cool slowly. As a result, the system becomes unstable; any disturbance can cause the excess solute to precipitate out rapidly.

In contrast, a saturated solution contains the maximum amount of solute that can dissolve under equilibrium conditions, while an unsaturated solution has the capacity to dissolve more solute. An insoluble substance refers to a solute that cannot dissolve in the solvent at all, regardless of how much is added. Thus, the term supersaturated distinctly describes an interesting and specific condition of a solution where the solute exceeds the expected solubility limits.